Vermouth Rojo La Copa

La Copa is the vermouth line of González Byass, the historic Jerez house in Andalusia, southern Spain. Its character starts with the Sherry base: Palomino grown on the chalky albariza soils of the Jerez triangle, where the white limestone retains winter rain and reflects the strong southern sun, giving a wine of firm acidity and a saline edge. That base is macerated with a blend of herbs and spices in the traditional vermouth method, then sweetened and lightly coloured, so the aromatic and bitter compounds infuse into the wine before stabilising. The Sherry origin lends a savoury, slightly oxidative depth that sets Andalusian vermouth apart from the Catalan style. The colour is a clear red. The nose is spicy and inviting, with clove, cinnamon and wild herbs to the fore. The palate is smooth and elegant, the sweetness balanced by a soft bitter finish that keeps it fresh. Serve chilled at 8 to 10C over ice with a slice of orange, the classic Spanish midday aperitif. It suits olives, salted almonds, anchovies and cured pork before a meal.